Sadeshkaran, who was a second-year undergraduate in the Engineering Faculty of Peradeniya University at the time, was charged with the abduction and torture of Varaprakash, a freshman, during ragging, resulting in the death of Varaprakash on October 26, 1997.

The accused has fled the country after he was granted bail and the case was heard in absentia.

The Judge ordered the police to obtain assistance of the Interpol to arrest the convict, who is now believed to be living abroad.

Police seek the support of the Sri Lankans living in foreign countries to trace the absconding convict.

Another accused, who was found not directly connected to the murder was acquitted but ordered to pay a compensation of Rs. 150,000 to the father of the victim.